Shire and the Foundation Fighting Blindness, a national nonprofit organization focused on the entire spectrum of retinal diseases, have formed a new agreement to further research for a novel treatment for autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa (adRP), a rare genetic disease that usually first occurs in late childhood or adolescence and is followed by the progressive loss of peripheral vision. There currently are no approved treatment options for adRP.

The Foundation Fighting Blindness and its research partners will provide Shire with knowledge and scientific background regarding adRP, as well as pertinent clinical information that could be useful in the development of a drug to treat adRP. Backed by its scientific advisory board, the Foundation Fighting Blindness also will provide counsel as requested on the preclinical and/or clinical development of Shire compounds in development for the treatment of adRP.

"Autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa is a rare, inherited disease that has a significant impact on patients and their families as they navigate the challenges associated with severe vision loss," said Patricia Zilliox, chief drug development officer, Foundation Fighting Blindness Clinical Research Institute. "Through our agreement with Shire, we are excited to drive R&D and extend our expertise to dedicated partners working to accelerate treatments for those living with retinal diseases."